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Buying guide

Best Record Cleaning Kits

Clean records sound better and last longer — and if you buy second-hand, a cleaning kit pays for itself fast.

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Start simple

A brush-and-fluid kit removes the dust and grime that cause crackle and pops. For most collectors this is all you'll ever need.

For serious collections

Spin-clean style washer systems and, at the top end, vacuum or ultrasonic machines deep-clean records and rescue grubby charity-shop finds. They're an investment, not a necessity.

Don't improvise

Avoid household cleaners and tap water on records — use products made for vinyl to protect the grooves.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean my records?

Give a new or used record a clean before its first play, then a quick anti-static brush before each play. A deeper wet clean is worth doing occasionally or whenever a record looks or sounds dirty.

Is a cheap cleaning kit enough?

For most collections, a carbon-fibre brush plus a quality cleaning fluid and microfibre cloth handles day-to-day care. Vacuum and ultrasonic machines clean more thoroughly but are an investment for larger or second-hand-heavy collections.